In a significant development for scaffolding training, the inaugural CISRS OSTS Level 4 course has been completed successfully at Simian International’s centre in Abu Dhabi.
Led by experienced UK instructor Gary Brown, the intensive 10-day program marked a milestone in advancing scaffolding education outside the UK.
The comprehensive curriculum of the course mirrored its UK counterpart, covering vital theoretical aspects such as risk assessment, method statements, reading complex drawings, rescue procedures, and familiarisation with industry standards, including SG4 and TG20.
Practical training included the erection and dismantling of various scaffold structures like the dead shore, pedestrian staircase, ramp, and temporary roofs.
Most notably, participants, predominantly seasoned scaffolders from Seaweld Engineering in the offshore sector, travelled from Ghana to partake in this historic event. The course also facilitated the upgrading of two registered OSTS instructors, Abid Gul and Alliver Revilla, to the highest OSTS Level 4, underscoring the commitment to professional development within the industry.
Gary Brown, expressing his appreciation for Simian International’s efforts, remarked, “Congratulations and respect to Ian and all the team at Simian International for the hard work and preparation it has taken to run the first OSTS Level 4 in the UAE.” Brown commended the dedication of the scaffolders, highlighting their eagerness to learn and adapt throughout the rigorous training.
Simian International hosted a UK-approved instructor to conduct a CISRS CPD 2-day refresher course for CISRS UK cardholders in the Gulf regions. The initiative received positive feedback from delegates, with John Gallagher of Qatar Energy emphasising the convenience and time-saving benefits of completing the advanced CPD refresher locally.
Echoing similar sentiments, Brian Fitzgerald underscored the significance of bringing such training opportunities to regions outside the UK, citing substantial time and cost savings. The success of these endeavours has prompted CISRS to explore the possibility of extending UK CPD courses to other regions where demand necessitates.
The successful completion of the CISRS OSTS Level 4 and UK CPD courses in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step forward in advancing global scaffolding education and professional development opportunities.
